Bedingham keeps the Durham charge alive

ECB Reporters Network supported by Rothesay

- By Graham Hardcastle

David Bedingham takes on the Yorkshire attack at Headingley

SOUTH Africa Test batter David Bedingham hit a season’s best 93 off 195 balls to steer an impressive Durham recovery from early strife against fellow relegation candidates Yorkshire on day one of the final-round Rothesay County Championship meeting at Headingley.

Durham, having elected to bat, slipped to seven for two inside five overs, bringing Bedingham in.

He determinedly batted through until late evening and shared in a series of crucial partnerships, chiefly 101 for the fourth wicket either side of lunch with Will Rhodes, 53.

The second-bottom visitors closed on 322 for seven from 96 overs.

They will be delighted with the outcome, especially considering Ben Raine’s counterattacking 87 not out off 85 late in the day. His was also a season’s best score.

Yorkshire came into this fixture seventh in the table on 146 points, Durham ninth on 140. Sandwiched in between, Hampshire on 142.